Nag Ashwin’s ambitious sci-fi film “Kalki 2898 Ad” has become a box office phenomenon, grossing over $84 million worldwide and debuting at No. 3 globally. With an estimated budget of $72 million, it’s one of the most expensive Indian films ever made.

Set in a dystopian future, “Kalki 2898 Ad” follows Bhairava (Prabhas), a powerful warrior with mysterious origins. As he navigates a world ravaged by war and environmental destruction, Bhairava becomes entangled in an ancient prophecy. Amitabh Bachchan plays Ashwatthama, an immortal being from the era of Indian mythological epic “Mahabharata,” while Deepika Padukone portrays Sumathi, a character who is pregnant with the unborn Kalki, an avatar of Vishnu. Kamal Haasan takes on the role of the antagonist Supreme Yaskin. The film blends elements of Indian mythology with futuristic technology, culminating in epic battles that span both physical and spiritual realms.

The concept for “Kalki 2898 Ad” began taking shape after...